We Love You

Richard M. Cwik might have seemed like an average person to just anyone, but to his family he was so much more. More formally known as Papa (or Dad or Husband), he had enough personality to brighten any room. Whether he brought a ‘bag of nuts’ or was howling like a wolf, he always managed to make us laugh, even at times when laughing seemed unimaginable. 

Born in Chicago, Illinois Richard, son of Joseph and Charlotte Cwik, was one of three children. It was here he met his kind-hearted, loving wife Deborah Cwik. They managed to create a beautiful life together, filling the home with two spontaneous and energetic daughters, Jennifer and Shannon Cwik. He provided for his family in any capacity he could, even if that meant joking around and keeping them on their toes more often than not. From working as a mechanic, to retiring from McCarran Airport Aviation Facilities, Richard accomplished many things in this life. Even in the end he liked to acknowledge that a six hour brake replacement to one, was nothing more than an hour and a half job to a seasoned mechanic like himself. 

In his free time he was able to spend time doing some of the things he loved. Whether it was working on cars, going fishing, or gambling – a hobby of 80% of retired individuals in Las Vegas – he found joy in the simple things. Not often in this life are we allowed to have a relationship with someone as easygoing and playful as Papa. As one of his five grandchildren I was able to have the pleasure of seeing this side of him. I might not know every story about him, or what exactly happened at the Community Discount Store back in the day, but I do know that he was a light in this life. 

He always had unwavering faith in his family no matter what they were going through. He would see the good in people, and even when disagreements were had he never lost love for those he cared about, but he might have tried feeding them a dog-treat or two. He was loved and admired by more people than he might have known, and he will be missed eternally.Sunday, September 27th, 2026, Richard spent his final moments in his home in Las Vegas with the people he loved. Even in these final days he was cracking what little jokes he could, and he knew he was surrounded by those that loved him. He had 72 vibrant years on this Earth and the memories he created in this time will be with us forever. 

He is in a better place now, where I bet he is riding a fancy Honda Gold Wing or one of those Cadillacs that would fit everyone, but he is not gone. 

We love you always Papa, and we will see you later.